Policy information sourced from the Harlow Local Development Plan 2020-2033 PDF.
PL1: Design Principles for Development.
A high standard of urban and architectural design is expected for all development. Development must meet the following criteria:
- (a) it is supported by a design rationale based on an understanding and analysis of local context and character, taking into consideration the adopted Harlow Design Guide Supplementary Planning Document (SPD), the Harlow and Gilston Garden Town Vision and Design Guide, the services and access chapter of the Essex Design Guide, and relevant national guidance;
- (b) it protects, enhances or improves local distinctiveness without restricting style and innovation, whilst taking account of local character and context, including patterns of development, urban form and landscape character, Green Infrastructure including trees and landscaping, building typology and the historic environment;
- (c) it responds to the scale, height, massing, architectural detailing, materials and front boundary treatments of the surrounding area and is visually attractive;
- (d) it provides appropriate physical, legible and safe connections with surrounding streets, paths, neighbouring development and Green Infrastructure;
- (e) it provides logical and legible layouts which support active street frontages, improves the public realm, provides distinction between public and private space, and provides an appropriate level of well-designed and well-located high quality landscaping;
- (f) it forms inclusive development that is accessible, well-connected, gives sustainable modes of transport priority over private vehicles, and integrates land uses with sustainable modes of transport;
- (g) it is flexible enough to respond to economic, social, environmental and technological change;
- (h) it creates safe and secure environments which help to reduce opportunities for crime and minimise the fear of crime.
For more information, please visit Harlow’s Local Plan here.